Administrators Need Love Too
Early childhood administrators have been through a lot in the past years: a worldwide pandemic that crippled the enrollment of many childcare centers, an acceptance of technology and its benefits, and the staffing crisis that was created as an aftermath of the pandemic. Many of these things caused an exodus of good people from childcare. The remaining administrators may be left feeling exhausted and out of ideas to improve themselves and the morale at your center.
The following are some suggestions that can help:
Be positive. Being positive helps you overcome minor setbacks while maintaining a positive self-image. Find at least one positive thing in every negative experience.
Smile, laugh and listen to the happy sounds in your childcare environment. Seek out other happy motivated people, adults and children.
Practice gratitude and appreciation for the work you do and the positive impact you have on the lives of children and families. Take time to reflect on your accomplishments and celebrate them.
Communicate effectively and build positive relationships with staff, families, and community members. Use positive language and focus on solutions rather than problems. Seek out feedback and suggestions to improve your leadership and management style.
Stay up-to-date with the latest research and best practices in the early childhood field. Attend conferences, workshops and trainings to enhance your knowledge and skills. Seek out mentorship and coaching to gain new perspectives and insights.
Create a positive and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity and a sense of community among staff members. Recognize and reward good work, and provide opportunities for professional growth and development.
Lead by example and model positive behavior for staff and children. Show empathy and understanding, and listen actively to the concerns and needs of others. Encourage a growth mindset and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
Finally, take care of your own physical and mental health. Prioritize self-care, including exercise, healthy eating and restful sleep. Make time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy and help you relax. Remember that a positive attitude starts with taking care of yourself.
Administrators are the cornerstone of a childcare center. They set the tone and direction for their early childhood environment. Remember that administrators need love too. The best thing you can do for your center is to prioritize your own well-being to lead your center to success.